Brown gook on board

[kevinm34232]

What is this and what's the best way to clean it up?? Can it cause problems?

[mariushm]

Re: Brown gook on board

It looks like flux to me.

You can leave it there or remove it with isopropyl alcohol

[kevinm34232]

Re: Brown gook on board

It doesn't come off very easy with alcohol and a Q-tip, it's hardened but does come off in smooth areas with enough rubbing.

[budm]

Re: Brown gook on board

Try using Q-tip and Acetone.

[Glitcher]

Re: Brown gook on board

Its usually fine, I've seen it on most of the main boards I've salvaged from Samsung panels.

[Agent24]

Re: Brown gook on board

Flux is pretty low on the list of things causing problems. It's not impossible, but it would have to be a very sensitive circuit.

[kevinm34232]

Re: Brown gook on board

Is it safe to "dip" the board in Acetone, and maybe scrub with a tooth brush? Is there any need to use alcohol after to remove residue or will it evaporate?

[mariushm]

Re: Brown gook on board

Acetone can attack the plastics on capacitor and other components, or dissolve the printed text on various components.

I would advise against it, especially as it doesn't really look like you need to clean it.